Canada’s winters are tough to contend with. From heavy snowfall in the Rockies to biting winds and freezing temperatures in the Prairies, the country sees some of the harshest winter conditions in the world. For hardscape contractors, that means outdoor living spaces must be designed and prepared to stand up to months of rough weather without losing their aesthetic appeal or functionality. Here’s what it takes to effectively winterize an outdoor space, both before and during the season: 

Choose Weather-Resistant Materials 

Not all materials are built to withstand the freeze-thaw cycles and heavy snow that Canadian winters bring. For climates prone to deep freezes, natural stones like granite and limestone offer excellent resistance to water absorption, lowering the risk of cracks or erosion. They’re naturally durable, making them ideal for areas with severe cold. For contractors looking to use concrete, certain pavers are engineered for regions with fluctuating temperatures. Their built-in air pockets allow for controlled expansion, preventing the cracking often caused by freeze-thaw cycles. Choosing the right materials upfront means fewer headaches down the road.

Consider Permeable Pavers 

Water management becomes extra important in winter, especially with the snowmelt and rain that often leads to ice buildup. Permeable pavers are designed to allow water to pass through them, preventing it from pooling (and later freezing) on the surface. Beyond improving safety, they help reduce the potential long-term damage caused by water sitting on or beneath your hardscape. It’s not just about picking the paver itself, though; the installation process matters just as much. A well-graded base and sub-base will be important to keep water moving through the layers, even during rapid thawing.

Seal for Extra Protection 

Applying a high-quality sealant provides an essential layer of defense for hardscape materials. Sealants act as a barrier against the moisture, salt, and freeze-thaw damage that Canadian winters bring. Without this protective layer, water can seep into cracks, freeze, and cause the materials to expand and break. In coastal areas, sealants are even more critical to help prevent salt from penetrating and eroding the surface. Whether it’s rain, snow, or salty air, sealing your hardscape offers another layer of defense, prolonging its life and preserving its appearance.

Ensure Proper Drainage 

Any water that pools on or around surfaces can freeze, expand, and potentially cause damage like cracking, shifting, or heaving. So, integrating a comprehensive drainage system during the initial design and installation phase is essential. You can start by grading surfaces at a slight angle to direct water away from critical areas, such as walkways, patios, or retaining walls. For larger hardscape projects, you might consider installing French drains, channel drains, or permeable paver systems to ensure water is funneled away effectively. It's also important to clear existing drainage systems of debris before winter begins to maintain optimal water flow throughout freeze-thaw cycles.

Combat Chemicals 

De-icing salts, such as sodium chloride and calcium chloride, are necessary for safety but can corrode hardscape surfaces, erode joints, and cause staining. A more material-friendly option is magnesium chloride, which is less corrosive while still effective at melting ice. In coastal areas, where salt exposure from ocean spray adds to the issue, applying a high-quality sealant to stone and concrete can help prevent salt and moisture penetration. Regular cleaning throughout winter also reduces long-term damage from salt buildup.

Prepare Outdoor Features

Fire pits, grills, and built-in seating require winterization to avoid damage. For furniture and accessories, encourage your clients to use durable, weather-resistant covers that can protect against snow, ice, and moisture. Stainless steel or powder-coated grills should be thoroughly cleaned before winter, and all components should be covered or moved indoors if possible to prevent rusting. Fire pits, particularly those made of metal, benefit from a cleaning before winter and should also be covered to avoid moisture buildup that can cause corrosion. For permanent, in-ground features like lighting or irrigation systems, inspect all components and insulate any exposed pipes or wiring to prevent freezing.

Remove Snow Carefully 

Metal-edged shovels can scrape and chip pavers and natural stone. Instead, recommend that your clients use plastic or rubber-edged tools, which are gentler on these surfaces. For clients using snow blowers, remind them to make sure the blade or auger is set high enough to avoid scraping the surface. In areas with permeable pavers, plowing needs to be done with caution to avoid dislodging the stones or disturbing the joints between them. Proper snow removal techniques can go a long way in preserving the integrity of the hardscape through the winter months.

Address Irrigation

Irrigation systems are particularly vulnerable to winter’s freezing temperatures, which can cause water to expand within pipes, leading to cracks or bursts. The key to preventing this is to properly drain and winterize the system before temperatures drop. Start by shutting off the water supply and draining the system’s pipes to remove as much water as possible. Then, use compressed air to blow out any remaining water from the lines (even a small amount can freeze and cause damage). In regions that experience prolonged freezes, insulating any exposed piping or installing heat tape can provide additional protection. Mechanical components such as pumps and timers should be removed and stored indoors when possible.

Count on Cold & Count on Us

Canada’s climate may vary by region, but the one constant is that winters wreak havoc. At SiteOne® Landscape Supply, we understand the unique challenges of winterizing hardscapes in Canada’s extreme winter conditions. Whether you’re looking for weather-resistant materials, permeable pavers, or sealants, we have the products and expertise to help you build durable, long-lasting outdoor spaces. Visit your nearest SiteOne to speak with a local branch associate today.